Use the correct pair of correlative conjunctions

key notes :

1. What are Correlative Conjunctions?

  • Correlative conjunctions are pairs of conjunctions that work together to connect words, phrases, or clauses that are of equal importance in a sentence.
  • They help to create balance and emphasize the relationship between the connected elements.

2. Common Correlative Conjunctions

Here are some common pairs of correlative conjunctions:

  • both/and: Used to join two similar ideas or items.
  • Example: “Both the cat and the dog are friendly.”
  • either/or: Used to present a choice between two options.
  • Example: “You can either have cake or ice cream.”
  • neither/nor: Used to indicate that none of the options is true or applicable.
  • Example: “Neither the blue shirt nor the red one fits me.”
  • not only/but also: Used to emphasize an additional point or idea.
  • Example: “She is not only smart but also kind.”
  • whether/or: Used to express a choice between two alternatives, often when uncertainty is involved.
  • Example: “I don’t know whether to go or stay.”

3. How to Use Correlative Conjunctions

  • Balance: Make sure that both parts of the sentence are similar in structure (e.g., two nouns, two verbs).
  • Punctuation: Generally, no special punctuation is needed before correlative conjunctions unless the sentence is particularly long or complex.

4. Identifying Correlative Conjunctions

To identify correlative conjunctions in a sentence:

  1. Look for the Pair: Check if the sentence contains one of the common pairs of correlative conjunctions.
  2. Check Structure: Ensure that both parts connected by the conjunctions are parallel in form.

Practice Example:

  • Sentence: “Not only did he win the race, but also he broke the record.”
  • Correlative Conjunction: Not only/but also

5. Examples of Correlative Conjunctions in Sentences

  • “Both my sister and my brother play soccer.”
  • “Either we go to the movies or stay home.”
  • “Neither the teacher nor the students were aware of the change.”

Let’s practice!🖊️